What you need to know
- Qualcomm has launched a new Snapdragon X35 5G modem.
- The device aims to bring 5G connectivity to things like smartwatches and wearable devices like AR glasses.
- The company expects the first devices to be available in 2024.
There are plenty of smartwatches that can connect to mobile networks, but wearables have lagged behind LTE as smartphones have fully embraced 5G in the last few years. Qualcomm is looking to improve that with his new 5G modems aimed at these types of devices.
The new Snapdragon X35 announced this week is the world’s first 5G NR-Light modem. It comes in a smaller form factor ideal for devices such as smartwatches, AR glasses, and IoT devices, the types of products Qualcomm is targeting with its modems.
NR-Light, also known as RedCap or ‘Low Capability’, doesn’t require the same high performance expected in devices such as smartphones and laptops, making it ideal for these types of products as well. Therefore, the Snapdragon X35 aims to deliver higher bandwidth, lower latency and improved performance than 4G LTE while remaining compact and battery efficient.
This means that future Android smartwatches and other devices can take advantage of sub-6 5G for speeds up to 220 Mbps and VoNR. It can also fallback to LTE if desired. Beyond smartwatches and wearables, Qualcomm is also targeting low-power laptops like cheap Chromebooks.
A recent study we conducted made it clear that connected smartwatches are not for everyone, and many users are happy with Bluetooth/Wi-Fi smartwatches. However, there are still many users who find LTE connectivity a nice feature to have on their wrist. Luckily, there are plenty of LTE smartwatches to choose from.
As for when we can expect products with this new modem to arrive, Qualcomm said to wait until at least the first half of 2024. 5G-enabled smartwatches are coming to market.
The Pixel Watch is one of the best Android smartwatches you can buy. It has a sleek design, great performance, optional LTE connectivity, and great health and fitness features with Fitbit integration. There are also plenty of great looking straps that you can throw in to suit your style.
